Bolles has played Bishop Kenny since 1977, when the Bulldogs beat Kenny 36-0. At this time, it was just another win for Bolles, but the rivalry became real on October 8, 2022, when Bishop Kenny won against the Bulldogs at their own home field. Ever since that game, the rivalry between Bolles and Bishop Kenny has been intense.
Before they faced off in 2022, Bolles was historically known as the dominant team. Bolles always cameout with the victory. The rivalry was not created because of the clash in skill level between these two teams over the years, but rather because of how shocking the win for the Crusaders was in 2022.
Heading up to the match-up this year, the build-up to the Bolles vs Bishop Kenny game was intense. The week of practice leading up to the game was also intense. The Bulldogs had been training hard Monday through Thursday for the opportunity to defeat Bishop Kenny on their home field on a Friday night. The last time Bolles varsity had played at Bishop Kenny’s field, they had a heartbreaking loss in 2022. Neither the players nor the coaches wanted to feel that pain again. Throughout the week, the Bulldogs practiced with passion. Senior leaders and coaches were motivating the team throughout the week, so when the time came, the Bulldogs would defeatthe Crusaders.
The excitement spilled onto the campus as well, even though it was an away game that night. The day of the game was spirit day on campus. Students were allowed to wear Bolles t-shirts and apparel instead of the normal dress code. This added to the hype leading up to the game later that night.
When Friday night arrived, the energy at Bishop Kenny was described by some as “electric.” The Bolles student section was excited as the team ran out. It was a whiteout-themed game for Bolles so the crowd was filled with students in white clothing. Every big play was met with immense cheer. When the final whistle blew the Bulldogs stood victorious. To them, it was a victory and redemption.
History tends to repeat itself. On Friday, September 12, 2025, the Bolles Bulldogs played Kenny away at their field. Just like the first time Bolles played BK in 1977, the Bulldogs beat them 36-0.
